Volume CV, No. 2 Huron, SD MAR/APR 2020
A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION
SERVING SOUTH DAKOTA’S FARM & RANCH FAMILIES SINCE 1915.
E30 Day
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Legislative Day 2020
Legislative Scorecard
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South Dakotans Meet with U.S. Sec. of Agriculture During National Farmers Union Convention
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cknowledging the challenges facing American agriculture, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue says he remains bullish for the future of agriculture when he addressed Farmers Union members during the organization’s national convention held in Savannah, Ga., March 1-3. “People need you. People need us. People need American
National Convention Continued on Page 16
G N I L L A C A LL ! S R E P M CA Visit www.SDFU.org & Sign up for 2020 SDFU Youth Camps
College Conference on Cooperatives
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SDFU Celebrates Frerichs Farm Family of Wilmot
South Dakota Farmers Union has served South Dakota farm and ranch families for more than a century. Throughout the year, we share their stories in order to highlight the families who make up our state’s No. 1 industry and help feed the world. This month we highlight the Frerichs farm family of Wilmot – Aaron, Kent, Jason and Ryan Frerichs.
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aith in God. Love of family. Commitment to serve others. These are the principles the Frerichs family live by. “We all share strong feelings about these principles and strive to live by them,” explains Kent Frerichs, a third-generation Wilmot farmer and former agricultural education instructor/FFA adviser and state legislator. Today, Kent and his wife, Faye, a registered nurse, help out on the farm as much as possible. Aaron, 41, and Jason, 34, work full time on the farm, raising spring wheat, corn, soybeans and a cow/ calf herd. Ryan, 31, works full time off the farm, owns some cattle and spends days off helping his brothers. Miranda and her husband, Mark, live in Barnesville, Minn., along with their children, Noah, Nate, Nic and Ava. The couple is actively involved in their church, school and community. Miranda is completing a Masters Degree in Counseling. “We are proud of all our children,” Kent says. “We are proud our sons are farming. They have faced challenges, as everyone in
Frerichs Family Continued on Page 2
Union Farmer Frerichs Family
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In 2017, the Frerhichs family was named FFA Family of the Year by the South Dakota FFA Foundation.
South Dakota farming. Between what gets thrown at them from weather, prices as well as the impact of government actions, such as tariffs, but despite these challenges, they are putting their education and experience to good work and making it on the farm.” Relying on each other’s strengths and interests – Aaron manages the crops, while Jason oversees the cattle – the brothers say making it on the family farm today takes optimism. It also requires seeking out marketing opportunities and ways to increase efficiencies. “If you plan on a flood or drought, that is probably what you will get. You definitely have to have an upbeat and optimistic mentality, especially nowadays,” Aaron says. He explains that even after 2019’s challenging growing
season, he has pre-ordered inputs and is planning for 2020 planting to be on time. In addition to farming, Aaron also serves as the township supervisor. Growing up, the family raised purebred Duroc hogs. Aaron developed his love for crops while custom spraying and driving tender truck for the local co-op during high school and college. “Agronomy was where my heart was,” he says. “I didn’t see myself working at a desk job…. I liked the rural way of life. I liked the challenges that come with farming.” So, after graduating from South Dakota State University with an agriculture business degree, he returned home to farm. Aaron began renting farm ground from his dad and neighbors. To supplement
his farm start-up expenses, he did custom farming and combining. The relationships he built through this work eventually led to him being able to expand his crop acres as retiring farmers asked him to lease their land. It also helped that about the same time Aaron returned home to farm, Kent was asked to take over the recently vacated role of agricultural education instructor and FFA adviser at Wilmot. “I feel fortunate I was able to teach again because most of my life was centered around agricultual education and FFA.” Kent’s passion for agricultural education and FFA stems from his experiences as an FFA member. He got involved showing purebred Durocs; excelled in meat judging
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Union Farmer and was named 1964 South Dakota State Star Farmer. In 1965 he was selected to serve as the South Dakota State FFA Vice President. In 1966 he was asked Ashley & Jason with daughter, to represent Elizabeth. the National FFA Organization as an International FFA Ambassador to Scotland, England and West Germany. “FFA had such an impact on who I am and what I did,” Kent explains. “Through FFA I found out winning wasn’t everything, it was what I learned in the process.” He says the experiences he had through FFA also prepared him for service in the South Dakota Legislature. Following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Nels Christensen, Kent served as a legislator for District 1 from 1975-1989. Among his many accomplishments, Kent is most proud of his work to pass a bill restricting non-U.S. residents from owning more than 160 acres of agriculture land. He is also proud of his work in 1976 to help start what has become the annual FFA legislative breakfast. “This breakfast ensures FFA members get to meet legislators and legislators understand what the FFA and agricultural education is all about and the impact it has,” he says of the event, which continues to this day. Like their dad, all the Frerichs siblings were actively involved in FFA. In 2017, the family was named FFA Family of the Year for their service to South Dakota FFA Association. Echoing his dad’s comments, Jason says involvement in FFA and service as the 20042005 State FFA Vice President prepared him well for his first career as an FFA adviser and teaching agriculture. At only 23, Jason was elected to serve in the South Dakota Legislature. “There are so few farmers serving in the Legislature today. So, I wanted to be a voice for others who are in a similar situation as myself. I have had a unique career and fortunate background. If I can use the skills
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Jason poses with friends after receving his American FFA Degree.
I have honed and talents I possess to be a voice for others, that is important to me,” says Jason, who currently serves on the United Soybean Board. In 2018, after a decade of service in the South Dakota Legislature, Jason took a step back to focus on family and farming full time. He met his wife, Ashley, through FFA. Ashley grew up on a ranch in North Dakota. She also served as a state FFA officer. The couple married in 2015 and have a young daughter, Elizabeth. “Becoming a dad impacts the decisions I make on our farm. I have always been under the impression that we are simply caretakers of the land. But now, preparing for the next generation is very real to me,” says Jason, who implements rotational grazing and other conservation practices. Making more time for family is among many motivations for increasing efficiencies
Kent Frerhichs got his start raising purebred Durocs as an eighth-grader.
on the farm. Calving ease tops the list of genetics Jason seeks out for his and Ryan’s cow/calf herd. “We want to make sure our heifers require as little work as possible,” Jason says. Although Ryan works off the farm full time, his schedule has enough flexiblity to help Aaron and Jason. “Farming is in my blood. I would feel lost without working on the farm,” explains Ryan, a plant technician for POET Biorefining in Big Stone City. He also operates a tree service. Along with work and farming, Ryan also serves as a volunteer firefighter, first responder and serves on the Wilmot City Council. “Our grandparents and parents were really good role models. It is nice to help our community in any way we can,” Ryan says. He explains that in addition to his dad’s legislative service, his grandpa, Bert Ellington, also served in the Legislature. And his parents were 4-H leaders. “When I stop and think about how blessed we are and the opportunities we have had and the benefits we have accrued because of others who have helped us, it feels like there is a need to serve others,” Kent explains. To learn more about the Frerichs family, view a photo gallery and video, visit www. sdfu.org. ■ By Lura Roti for SDFU
March/April 2020
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Union Farmer
Around the State with Farmers Union
Wessington Springs Show
South Dakota Farmers Union members and staff are making a difference in rural communities across South Dakota.
Women in Blue Jeans
Watertown Winter Farm Show
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Kimball Livestock Coffee
www.sdfu.org
Union Farmer State Advisory Board Meeting
Josh Haeder, State Treasurer, talks with County presidents during Legislative Day State Advisory Board meeting. Commissioner of School and Public Lands Ryan Brunner also spoke.
Torchbearers at NFU Convention KELO AM
CPR Tune in the third Tuesday of each month for the Farmers Union radio show, 1320 AM or 107.9 FM or online at KELO. com. Pictured: Doug Sombke, Wayne Soren and Bill Zortman.
Kimball Farm Safety www.sdfu.org
March/April 2020
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2020 Legislative Update
Union Farmer
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verall, the 2020 legislative session turned out to be a positive one for family farmers, ranchers and By Mitch Richter rural communities. We had some wins The 2020 legislative session just wrapped up. Our and some challenges. eyes and ears, lobbyist Mitch Richter, wrote the Legislators were not following update reflecting on the issues and policy willing to look at ag that impacts South Dakota Farmers Union members. taxes, but they did pass an industrial hemp bill. They also balanced the budget, which is good. Our Legislators supported education with a 2 percent increase, following SDFU’s education policy. There were a few bills that aligned with SDFU policy, which didn’t pass, like HJR5002. Similar to Amendment T, HJR5002 called for a non-partisan commission who would be responsible for setting up legislative districts instead of legislators. Below are some other bills which aligned with SDFU policy and their outcomes. HB1008 Industrial Hemp: This year, money was the issue. How much do you need to start the program? In the end, this bill allocates more startup and ongoing funds than any other state. It includes $3.5 million in funding. Of this, $1.9 million is in one-time funds to get up and going, $1.6 million will be ongoing. These industrial hemp funds allow for 15 full-time staff positions in public safety, the Department of Agriculture or the Health Lab.
LEGISLATIVE DAY 2020
They cover the purchase of new drug testing equipment, more drug sniffing dogs and new drug storage space. Once the law is signed, the S.D. Department of Agriculture should allow for crop to be planted in 2020. Passed. SB157 Zoning Bill: This is the governor’s bill designed to streamline the conditional use permitting process. This new bill sets dates certain for decisions to regarding the conditional use permitting process. This bill also limits who can comment and appeal. Passed. HB1084 Raise Height of Baled Feed: Raises the legal height of baled feed from 14 feet 3 inches to 15 feet. Passed. HB1189 Rural Access to Broadband: Continuing the governor’s 2019 initiative into 2020, this bill will increase access to high speed broadband throughout rural South Dakota, $5 million one-time money to be overseen by Department of Economic Development. Passed. HB1237 Early Learning Advisory Council: This bill is to set up an advisory council to conduct an annual state-wide needs assessment concerning quality and availability of early-childhood education and development programs for children birth to 5-years-old. This bill did not pass due to some concerns over state-funded pre-K program. We are one of only a few states nationwide without an early-childhood learning council. Failed. HB1270 Revisions Regarding Ag Land for Tax Purposes: Currently, ag land is taxed based on whether or not it is cropland or non-cropland. This bill would have set up a process for taxing agriculture land based on USDA-NRCS soil classifications. This bill did not pass based on concerns of equalizing revenue across all tax classifications. Failed. ■
S.D. Farmers Union Appreciates Senators’ Response to Lifting Brazilian Beef Ban
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outh Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) appreciates the efforts made by 15 U.S. senators, including Sens. John Thune and Mike Rounds, to hold the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) accountable. In a Feb. 28 letter, senators expressed concerns over the USDAFSIS Feb. 20 decision to lift the U.S. ban on Brazilian raw beef imports, noting public health concerns, poor sanitary conditions and animal health issues. The letter also calls for a complete verification of certified Brazilian processing facilities, acknowledging “Brazil’s multiple failed attempts to uphold equivalent food safety standards.” “We appreciate and support these senators who showed cohesiveness and non-partisanship toward an issue important to farmers and ranchers as well as the consumers we serve,” says Doug Sombke, SDFU President. In addition to concerns, in the letter senators ask U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue several pointed questions which focus on how the USDA-FSIS plans to ensure Brazil’s compliance with U.S. food safety standards. “This letter asks the right questions,” says Sombke, a fourthgeneration farmer. “We must not compromise our consumers’ safety or the U.S. beef industry. Thank you, senators, for holding
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Secretary Perdue and the USDA-FSIS accountable.” A complete copy of the letter can be read at www.sdfu.org. To learn more about how SDFU supports family farmers and ranchers, visit www.sdfu.org. ■ www.sdfu.org
Union Farmer Governor Noem Proclaims Feb. 25 E30 Day LEGISLATIVE DAY 2020
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Members of S.D. Farmers Union (SDFU) and Glacial Lakes Energy (GLE) Cooperative celebrate E30 Day together in Pierre Feb. 25 after Gov. Kristi Noem’s proclamation.
embers of S.D. Farmers Union (SDFU) and Glacial Lakes Energy (GLE) Cooperative celebrated E30 Day together in Pierre Feb. 25 after Gov. Kristi Noem’s proclamation. “The governor’s proclamation helps increase public awareness of E30 as the renewable fuel option that also promotes air quality and public health because it replaces cancerous additives,” says Doug Sombke, President of SDFU. “We appreciate her continued support for higher ethanol blends.” In addition to showing her support for higher ethanol blends through proclamation of E30 Day, in 2018 Noem reinforced her
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commitment by committing to fuel the state fleet vehicles on E30. “I think the governor was right on when she said in her State of the State Address that being from a small state means we can do things other states cannot do,” explains Jim Seurer, CEO of GLE. “South Dakota needs to be a leader in our push to increase ethanol consumption through higher blends. We are the leader other states will follow.” To learn more about how South Dakota Farmers Union works to promote E30, visit www.sdfu.org. To learn more about Glacial Lakes Energy Cooperative, visit http://www.glaciallakesenergy.com/. ■
S.D. Farmers Union President Calls on Leadership to Look into Price Fixing fter Friday the 13th saw a dramatic drop in cattle prices at Ft. Pierre Livestock Market, South Dakota Farmers Union President, Doug Sombke called on Leadership to investigate the possibility of price fixing among the nation’s four meat packers. “I’m asking you on behalf of all our cattle producers in South Dakota whom you represent, to get answers form the Justice Department and USDA’s GIPSA to why laws already on the books are not being enforced,” Sombke’s letter reads. Addressed to Governor Kristi Noem and our state’s Congressional leaders: Sen. John Thune, Sen. Mike Rounds and Rep. Dusty Johnson, Sombke hopes they can influence stricter enforcement of anti-trust laws to aid the hemorrhaging cattle market prices. “Finished cattle selling for $521 per head – that is a loss of about $900 per head. We thought it was bad in December when after expenses finishers only received $70 per head. But to lose $900, this situation is dire,” Sombke says. Feeders lose $900. Packers bring in $136.79 per head. Sombke’s complete letter is below: Honorable U.S Senators John Thune and Mike Rounds and U.S Representative Dusty Johnson and Governor Kristi Noem, I’m sure you are aware of the dire situation our family farmers and ranchers are facing due to oversupply and undervalued
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farm-gate prices over the past several years. The recent slump to the NYSE has added even more distress. I don’t need to tell you things are not getting any better with the recent national emergency due to coronavirus. However, this last week I have visited numerous members of our 19,000 SDFU membership and I want to pass on to you what I think summarizes the visits I had with cattle producers. This week’s report from Ft. Pierre Livestock says it all; Ft. Pierre Livestock ReportFriday, March 13th, 2020 Had a much smaller run of cattle, due to miserable market conditions. Had a good crowd of buyers, and everything considered, a fairly active market. Packers gross revenue live equivalent Friday
Price Fixing
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LEGISLATIVE DAY 2020 Union Farmer SOUTH DAKOTA LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD Each year, South Dakota Farmers Union crafts its Legislative Scorecard in an attempt to educate members about some of the legislation the organization worked on throughout the recent legislative session and to give you an idea where lawmakers stand on the bills important to you. We hope this information proves to be valuable to you as a citizen and voter.
Scorecard Legend Y = Legislator Supported Legislation N = Legislator Did Not Support E = Excused A ‘Y’ vote does not necessarily mean they voted ‘Yes’ during the committee or floor vote. An ‘N’ vote does not necessarily mean a lawmaker voted ‘No.’ Some Yes votes were meant to defeat measures. Some No votes were meant to keep from defeating a measure.
STATE SENATE SDFU Stance on SDFU Stance on SDFU Stance on SDFU Stance on SDFU Stance on SDFU Stance on Do Pass Vote Do Pass Vote Do Pass Vote Do Pass Vote Motion to Defer Motion to Defer (Y) (Y) (Y) (Y) (Y) (Y) Alignment with Senate Vote HB Senate Vote HB Senate Vote HB Senate Vote SB Senate Vote SB Senate Vote SB SDFU Senator District 1189 1100 1008 144 178 76 (%)
Blare, Rocky Bolin, Jim Cammack, Gary L Castleberry, Jessica Curd, R. Blake Duhamel, Helene Ewing, Bob Foster, Red Dawn Greenfield, Brock L Heinert, Troy Jensen, Phil Kennedy, Craig Klumb, Joshua Kolbeck, Jack Lake, John A Langer, Kris Maher, Ryan Monroe, Jeff Nesiba, Reynold F Novstrup, Al Otten, Ernie Partridge, Jeffrey D Rusch, Arthur L Russell, Lance S Schoenbeck, Lee Schoenfish, Kyle Smith, V.J. Soholt, Deb Stalzer, Jim Steinhauer, Wayne Sutton, Margaret White, Jim Wiik, John Wismer, Susan Youngberg, Jordan
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21 Y Y Y N 75% 16 Y Y Y Y 100% 29 Y Y Y Y Y N 83% 35 Y Y Y Y Y Y 67% 12 Y Y Y Y 100% 32 Y Y Y Y 100% 31 Y Y Y N 75% 27 Y Y Y Y 100% 2 Y Y Y Y 100% 26 Y Y Y Y 100% 33 E E Y Y 100% 18 Y Y Y Y 100% 20 Y Y Y Y 100% 13 Y Y Y Y 100% 23 Y Y Y Y 100% 25 Y Y Y Y 100% 28 Y Y Y Y 100% 24 Y Y N Y Y Y 50% 15 Y Y Y Y 100% 3 Y Y Y Y 100% 6 Y Y Y Y Y Y 67% 34 Y Y Y Y 100% 17 Y Y Y Y 100% 30 Y Y N N 50% 5 Y Y E E 100% 19 Y Y Y Y 100% 7 Y Y Y Y Y Y 67% 14 Y Y Y Y 100% 11 Y Y N Y Y N 67% 9 Y Y Y Y 100% 10 Y Y Y Y 100% 22 Y Y Y Y 100% 4 Y Y Y Y 100% 1 Y Y E Y N N 100% 8 Y E Y Y 100%
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Union Farmer
LEGISLATIVE DAY 2020
STATE HOUSE SDFU Stance on SDFU Stance on SDFU Stance on SDFU Stance on SDFU Stance on SDFU Stance on SDFU Stance on SDFU Stance on Do Pass Vote Do Pass Vote Do Pass Vote Do Pass Vote Do Pass Vote Do Pass Vote Deferral Motion Tabling Motion (Y) (Y) (Y) (Y) (N) (Y) (N) (N)
House Vote SCR House Vote HB House Vote SB House Vote HB House Vote HB House Vote HB House Vote HB House Vote HB Alignment With Representative District 601 1008 144 1100 1084 1189 1237 1270 SDFU (%)
Anderson, David L 16 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Bartels, Hugh M 5 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Barthel, Doug 10 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Beal, Arch 12 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Bordeaux, Shawn 26a E Y Y Y Y E 100% Borglum, Scyller 32 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Brunner, Thomas J 29 Y Y Y N Y N Y 57% Chaffee, Kirk 29 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 86% Chase, Roger D 22 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Cwach, Ryan 18 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Dennert, Drew 3 Y Y N Y Y N Y 57% Deutsch, Fred 4 E E E Y E Y E 100% Diedrich, Michael G 34 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Duba, Linda 15 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Duvall, Mary 24 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 86% Finck, Caleb 21 Y Y Y E Y Y 100% Frye-Mueller, Julie 30 Y E E N Y N 50% Glanzer, Bob 22 E Y Y E E E N 100% Goodwin, Timothy 30 Y Y Y N Y Y 83% Gosch, Spencer 23 Y E E E Y Y 100% Greenfield, Lana 2 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 86% Gross, Randy 8 N Y Y Y Y Y 83% Hammock, Dayle 31 Y N Y E Y N 60% Hansen, Jon 25 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Haugaard, Steven G 10 Y Y Y N Y N 67% Healy, Erin 14 Y Y Y Y Y Y N 100% Howard, Taffy 33 Y Y Y N Y N 67% Hunhoff, Jean M 18 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Jensen, Kevin D 16 Y N Y Y Y Y 83% Johns, Timothy R 31 Y Y Y Y Y N N 86% Johnson, Chris 32 Y N Y Y Y N Y 57% Johnson, David 33 Y N Y Y Y Y Y 71% Karr, Chris 11 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Koth, Lance 20 Y Y Y Y E Y 100% Latterell, Isaac 6 Y N N N Y N Y 29% Lesmeister, Oren L 28a Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Livermont, Steve 27 Y Y Y N Y N 67% Marty, Sam 28b Y Y Y N Y N Y 57% McCleerey, Steven D 1 E Y Y Y Y Y 100% Mills, John 4 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 86% Milstead, Rhonda 9 Y N Y Y Y Y 83% Miskimins, Paul 20 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Mulally, Tina 35 E Y Y N Y N 60% Olson, Jess 34 Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y 88% Otten, Herman 6 Y Y N Y Y Y 83% Overweg, Marty 19 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Perry, Carl 3 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Peterson, Kent 19 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Peterson, Sue 13 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Pischke, Tom 25 Y Y N N Y Y Y 57% Post, Doug 7 N Y Y Y Y Y 83% Pourier, Peri 27 Y Y Y E E Y 100% Qualm, Lee 21 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Randolph, Tony 35 Y N Y N Y N Y Y 38% Rasmussen, Nancy 17 E Y Y Y Y Y Y 83% Reed, Tim 7 N Y Y Y Y Y Y 71% Reimer, Rebecca 26B Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 86% Ring, Ray 17 Y Y Y N Y Y N Y 75% Rounds, Tim 24 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Saba, Michael 9 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Smith, Jamie 15 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 86% St. John, Tamara 1 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Steele, Manny 12 E N Y N Y Y Y 50% Sullivan, Kelly 13 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100% Wangsness, James “JD” 23 Y Y Y E Y Y 100% Weis, Kaleb 2 Y Y N N Y N 50% Wiese, Marli 8 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 86% Willadsen, Mark 11 Y Y Y Y Y Y E 100% York, Nancy 5 Y N Y Y Y Y 83% Zikmund, Larry P 14 Y Y Y Y Y Y 100%
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Union Farmer
LEGISLATIVE DAY 2020
Members Show Up to Support Agriculture During SDFU Legislative Day 2020
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armers and ranchers from across South Dakota witnessed members of the Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee unanimously pass House Bill 1008 supporting legalization of industrial hemp in South Dakota during South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) Legislative Day 2020, Feb. 25. “We support the passage of this bill because our farmers need more opportunities to diversify,” testified SDFU President Doug Sombke. “Will there be challenges? Absolutely there will be. Should we face these challenges? Yes. This is what makes South Dakota’s agriculture great. Our farmers and ranchers are not afraid to overcome challenges if there is an opportunity to improve the future of production agriculture in our state.” Passage of HB1008 out of committee came as a relief to District 28-A Representative and SDFU board member Oren Lesmeister. Because of the opportunities and potential of industrial hemp, Lesmeister has dedicated the last four years to Steven McCleerey, gathering research Dist. 1 Rep.
and providing information to the governor’s office and his peers. “From what I have learned, I am a firm believer that industrial hemp will be a viable value-added crop for South Dakota.” Although the bill passed unanimously out of committee, Lesmeister says his and other supporters’ work is far from complete. “The work has just begun. Once this passes on the floor, I will dedicate my time to working with all state departments involved, helping them implement HB1008.” Growing and processing industrial hemp has been a part of SDFU policy for the past several years. In addition to sitting in on the Agriculture Committee meeting, members also celebrated Gov. Noem’s proclamation, naming Feb. 25 E30 Day in South Dakota. 2020 marks the second year Noem recognized E30 (read more about this on page 7). Members also had an opportunity to visit one-on-one with legislators during a Rotunda luncheon hosted by SDFU. During this time, Pierpont farmer Franklin Olson made a point to visit with legislators about the great need for funds to help with infrastructure needs. “There are many roads still under water or washed out due to flooding. I know some farmers are driving 35 to 40 miles out of the way to get corn from the field to the grain bin or local elevator,” explains Olson, who attends Legislative Day each year.
SDFU President Doug Sombke testifies before Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee.
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Colome farmer Joel Keierleber also makes a point to attend the annual event. “It is important to be here to expose legislators to South Dakota’s family farmers and ranchers and let them know we are out here paying attention.” Kirk Schaunaman agrees. “We need to keep telling our story,” says the Aberdeen farmer. “I made time for Legislative Day to support and represent Farmers Union policy. With fewer producers serving as legislators, it is important to remind them that when agriculture suffers, so does Main Street. I look around Aberdeen and I can tell that the tough ag economy is impacting businesses.” Showing up makes a difference Making time for Legislative Day does make an impact, says Gary Cammack, District 29 Senator and a Union Center rancher and business owner. “If you are looking to influence lawmakers, you can make a difference and change minds by showing up.” District 1 Representative and Sisseton farmer Steven McCleerey agrees, encouraging SDFU members to stay involved in South Dakota politics and communities. “The next generation needs to step up and participate because that is what our rural communities need.” To learn more about how you can get involved in SDFU and how SDFU supports policy that supports South Dakota’s family farmers and ranchers, visit www.sdfu.org. ■
28-A Representative and SDFU board member Oren Lesmeister testifies before Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee.
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Union Farmer
LEGISLATIVE DAY 2020
Legislative Day
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Union Farmer
Terry Sestak
NATIONAL C
“I like the comradery of national convention. It’s important that we get together to promote ways to keep farming and ranching viable and bring the right message to congressional leaders.” Terry Sestak, Tabor
“Policy set here gives leadership the policy for what they need to lobby for in Washington, D.C., and what farmers want.” Larry Birgen, Beresford Larry Birgen
“Serving on the NFU Policy Committee was unlike any experience I have had up to this point. It was quite educational and at times frustrating. I agreed to serve because I like the values Farmers Union stands for – education, Jim & Kathy Wahle cooperation and legislation.” Jim Wahle, NFU Policy Committee member, Salem
“Having served on State Policy Committee for two years, serving as a delegate during National Farmers Union Convention seems like the next step.” Scott Kolousek, Wessington Springs Scott & Amber Kolousek
“We may face different challenges as agriculture producers, but there are a lot of issues we can come together on and find synergy.” Rob Lee, De Smet Rob & Darcie Lee
“As family farmers and ranchers, we attend convention to ensure our organization is working for us.” Doug Sombke, President, Conde
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Doug Sombke
“Farmers Union is the only grassroots agriculture organization where I feel anyone involved can make a difference. Even an Average Joe farmer like me.” Rachel Kippley, Aberdeen Jeff & Rachel Kippley www.sdfu.org
Union Farmer
CONVENTION
“Our national organization needs to continue to focus on education about cooperatives so young producers understand why cooperatives are here and why we need to do our business with cooperatives.” Wayne Soren, Vice President SDFU, Lake Preston Wayne & Vicki Soren
“This was an opportunity to learn more about National Farmers Union. Each state has different needs for members. This is our opportunity to carry policy from our Gerri Eide state to the national organization so they can advocate for our farmers and ranchers.” Gerri Eide, Gettysburg
“Someone’s got to do it. Those of us who can, need to work to initiate positive change. Some of us are in way over our heads and the markets cannot continue to go south.” Brian Cain, Miller Brian & Lindsey Cain
“With the struggles we face with being so wet and low commodity prices, it’s our job as delegates to look at policy to help protect farmers and help them through to another year.” Gail Temple, District 3 Board Member, Clark
“There is strength in numbers. Delegates are passionate about policy and even though we represent many different types of agriculture production across the Kirk Schaunaman nation and have our differences, we are able to come together through policy to support family farmers and ranchers. I think the nation as a whole can learn something from the National Farmers Union process.” Kirk Schaunaman, Aberdeen www.sdfu.org
David & Brenda Reis
“I value policy debates. When there is debate on policy from all over the nation, our organization gets quality policy.” Tammy Basel, Union Center
Gail Temple
“Actual farmers and ranchers are here making sure policy reflects us. As a cattle rancher I’m not directly impacted by some policy but what concerns one farmer should concern all of us.” David Reis, District 4 Board Member, Reliance
Dallis & Tammy Basel March/April 2020
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Union Farmer
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NATIONAL CONVENTION
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NATIONAL CONVENTION
Union Farmer
Today’s Corn Farmers Leave A Zero Carbon Footprint
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n addition to feeding and fueling the world, farmers across the Corn Belt are helping sequester carbon by raising corn for ethanol, livestock feed and Fourth of July barbecues. “Corn is one of only a handful of grasses (C4) which are superior at extracting carbon dioxide from the air and fixing it in plants and sequestering it in the soil,” says Ron Alverson, a Chester, S.D., corn farmer. Alverson spoke to a crowded room of family farmers and ranchers during a workshop at the National Farmers Union Convention in Savannah, Ga. During the workshop, he explained how raising corn, while at the same time implementing soil health-building practices, like no-till, corn growers are able to sequester carbon. “When herbicides came along, that allowed us to say goodbye to the plow and cultivator forever. With low tillage management, such as ridge till, corn plants are able to fix the CO2 in the soil, building up soil carbon, increasing our soil’s organic matter.” No-till farming for 35 years now, soil tests confirm that Alverson’s corn acres are restored to native grass levels. “We are zero carbon farmers. And we’re not unusual. Many Midwest corn farmers can say the same thing.” E30’s role in carbon sequestration Corn pulls carbon out of the atmosphere and stores or sequesters it in the soil through photosynthesis. Corn is especially efficient at carbon sequestration because it produces a lot of biomass. During his talk, Alverson pointed to a study which utilized satellite imagery to detect the intensity of photosynthesis in regions across the globe. The study showed, that thanks to its corn fields, a greater amount of photosynthesis takes place in the Corn Belt during the Northern Hemisphere summer than takes place in tropical rain forests during their peak season. When introducing Alverson’s talk, South Dakota Farmers Union President Doug Sombke, explained that increased demand for renewable fuels, like ethanol, which in turn drives demand for corn, helps clean the air in two ways. “High ethanol blends, like E30, replace carcinogenic additives in gasoline – keeping them out of the air we breath. And because of its ability to sequester carbon, the corn used to produce ethanol is also cleaning up the air,” Sombke says. “Really, corn-based biofuels are a win-win.” To learn more, visit www.sdfu.org. ■
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Ron Alverson, a Chester, S.D., corn farmer presents during a NFU Convention breakout seminar.
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Union Farmer
National Convention
NATIONAL CONVENTION
Continued from Page 1
agriculture,” Perdue said. Among the many family farmers and ranchers in the audience were several from South Dakota who took time away from their operations to help establish policy that will address some of the many challenges facing their industry today. “Farmers Union is the only grassroots agriculture organization where I feel anyone involved can make a difference. Even an Average Joe farmer like me,” explains Rachel Kippley, who farms near Aberdeen, S.D., with her husband, Jeff. The Kippleys are among South Dakota Farmers Union members who were elected to serve as delegates during convention: Terry Sestak, Tabor; Gerri Eide, Gettysburg; Scott Kolousek, Wessington Springs; Brian Cain, Miller; Gail Temple, Clark; Dallis Basel, Union Center; and Amber Kolousek, Wessington Springs. To learn more about the policy they discussed turn to page 18.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue
“Through policy and education, we are able to keep our organization focused,” Jeff Kippley adds. “The great thing about Farmers Union is we have representation from all kinds of farming. But at the heart and soul of Farmers Union are the commodity farmers and ranchers – like those of us from South Dakota.” Serving on the S.D. Farmers Union Policy Committee for two years, Wessington Springs cattle producer, Scott Kolousek agrees. “It is interesting to see how the policy developed at the state level becomes part of national policy.” Concerned over fair prices for cattle producers and an advocate for country-oforigin labeling (COOL), Kolousek took the opportunity to present a letter to Secretary Perdue to hand over to President Donald Trump asking for three changes he believes would be positive steps forward for cattle producers, including mandatory country-oforigin labeling (mCOOL); break up the meat packer consolidation and require any trader
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Several South Dakota counties were recognized for their continued leadership and growth in Farmers Union membership including Aurora, Bon Homme, Brule, Corson/Perkins, Hand, Jerauld/Buffalo, Lyman, Minnehaha, Sanborn, Spink, Tripp and Yankton.
on the Chicago Board of Trade or Chicago Mercantile Exchange to physically own for 30 days the commodity in which they trade. “The last four years have progressively gotten tougher, economically, for us. Corporate consolidation in livestock and agronomy businesses needs to be stopped and reversed,” Kolousek’s letter reads. “Remember the people in middle America who helped put you in office. We need your help.” South Dakotans recognized for Membership & Leadership During National Farmers Union Convention, several South Dakota counties were recognized for their continued leadership and growth in Farmers Union membership including Aurora, Bon Homme, Brule, Corson/Perkins, Hand, Jerauld/Buffalo, Lyman, Minnehaha, Sanborn, Spink, Tripp and Yankton. Jeff Kippley was also recognized for leadership and membership work in SDFU
2019 Torchbearers, Landon Copley, Aberdeen and Megan Linke, Woonsocket also attended NFU convention, pictured here with SDFU President Doug Sombke and SDFU Education Director Rachel Haigh-Blume.
with the Bruce Miller Award. “Because of leaders like Jeff and Rachel Kippley, membership has grown this last year in our state,” says Karla Hofhenke, SDFU Executive Director. “I am very impressed with the group of delegates we have this year. They are a good representation of our state’s family farmers and ranchers. And their leadership is going to be needed in developing our organization’s national policy, making sure the family farmer and rancher is not forgotten.” SDFU President and Conde farmer, Doug Sombke adds, “The reason Farmers Union can make a difference for family farmers and ranchers throughout the U.S. is this organization is truly grassroots. Our policy is developed by farmers and ranchers who have skin in the game and know what changes need to be made so their operations can be viable into the future.” South Dakota Farmers Union members who attended national convention include: Doug Sombke, Conde; Jim and Kathy Wahle, Salem; Jeff and Rachel Kippley, Aberdeen; Gerri Eide, Gettysburg; Wayne and Vicki Soren, Lake Preston; Larry Birgen, Sioux Falls; Kirk Schaunaman, Aberdeen; Dallis and Tammy Basel, Union Center; Rachel HaighBlume, Redfield; Landon Copley, Aberdeen; Brian and Lindsey Cain, Miller; Rocky Forman, Huron; Karla Hofhenke, Huron; Scott and Amber Kolousek, Wessington Springs; Megan Linke, Woonsocket; Luke Reindl, Wessington Springs; David and Brenda Reis, Oacoma; Terry Sestak, Tabor; Gail Temple, Clark; and Jason Wells, Huron. To learn more about SDFU involvement in 2020 NFU Convention and watch videos, visit www.sdfu.org or check out South Dakota Farmers Union on Facebook. ■ www.sdfu.org
NATIONAL CONVENTION
Union Farmer
S.D. Farmers Union President Named National Treasurer
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epresenting more than 18,000 family farmers and ranchers throughout South Dakota in his role as S.D. Farmers Union President, Doug Sombke was re-elected to serve as Treasurer of the national organization’s executive board during the 118th NFU Convention, held in Savannah, Ga., March 1-3. “My first priority is serving South Dakota Farmers Union members. This role strengthens my ability to ensure national lobbying efforts clearly represent South Dakota’s members,” explains Sombke, a fourth-generation Conde farmer. “By serving on the executive board, I work closely with NFU president and staff. I have a lot more input on what is happening and how we are implementing our current policy and special orders of business.” As NFU Treasurer, Sombke provides oversight to the national organization’s finances. Since 2017, Sombke has also served as President of Farmers Union Enterprises, the organization that oversees Farmers Union Industries. Farmers Union Industries is made up of several businesses — the dividends of which help fund Farmers Union organizations in South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana and Wisconsin as well as Farmers Union
“My first priority is serving South Dakota Farmers Union members. This role strengthens my ability to ensure national lobbying efforts clearly represent South Dakota’s members.” – Doug Sombke Enterprise programs and National Farmers Union. The diverse business portfolio Farmers Union Enterprises oversees includes grain-free pet food, wheat-based cat litter, grease and animal rendering plants. Like the organizations it supports, Farmers Union Industries also focuses on funding policy and advocacy. A fourth-generation Conde farmer, today Sombke’s three sons have all returned to the farm where they raise crops and operate other value-added enterprises. Sombke’s clear understanding of the life and challenges family farmers live and face daily serve him well in his leadership roles as SDFU President, NFU Treasurer and FUE President, says Rob Larew, President of NFU. “You can talk about agriculture, but unless you’ve planted corn, fed cattle and endured several market cycles, it’s hard to appreciate how stressful and important every decision can be to a family’s farming operation,” Larew says. “Doug understands agriculture because he is a farmer. He lives it.” ■
Brown County Farmer Receives National Award
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berdeen crop and cattle farmer, Jeff Kippley was recognized by National Farmers Union during the 2020 National Convention with the Bruce Miller Award for his active involvement in state and national Farmers Union events as well as his community. “This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate the mission and vision of Famers Union. Through his active involvement in our organization, as well as his community, Jeff lives out our focus of serving South Dakota’s family farmers and ranchers,” says Karla Hofhenke, SDFU Executive Director. Jeff and his wife, Rachel, joined Farmers Union when a friend invited them to attend the organization’s annual Young Producers event. “I was told about the benefits of what Farmers Union does and thought, ‘sure, why not.’”
“Right here in the Dakotas, people understand what we do as famers. But it is becoming more and more apparent that not everyone does understand. We need to get our story out.” – Jeff Kippley From there he describes their involvement, “like a seed that keeps growing.” Once he saw how the organization supported policy that supports family farmers and ranchers and helped producers like him share his story with decision-makers, Jeff says he and Rachel decided to become more involved. In 2018, they attended the national organization’s D.C. Fly-In. “Right here in the Dakotas, people understand what we do as famers. But it is becoming more and more apparent that not everyone does understand.
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We need to get our story out,” Kippley explains. “A good way to do this is by becoming involved in organizations like Farmers Union.” That same year, the couple represented South Dakota in the Farmers Union Enterprise Couples Leadership Program. The program is developed to substantiate and empower future leaders for rural America and Farmers Union through leadership, citizenship and policy development training. At the state level, Kippley has served on the State Policy Committee and as a delegate to the National Farmers Union Convention. “The policy side of the organization really drew my wife and I in,” Kippley explains. “We want to continue to make a living on the farm, so we need to have someone out there speaking our truth.” He also appreciates the opportunity to be involved with Rachel. “When we can, we like to be involved in organizations together.” Together, he and Rachel have four young children. As a family, they are also actively involved in the Brown County Fair. The family sponsors several events during the fair to honor Jeff’s mom, Geraldine, who served on the fair board and passed away in 2012, including a free pallet maize for kids; root beer float feed; watermelon feed; 4-H BBQ and a Super Farmer Contest. “The Brown County Fair matters. It mattered to my parents and we want to carry on the tradition that has been passed down to us,” Jeff explains. To learn more about how SDFU supports South Dakota’s family farmers, ranchers and rural communities, visit www.sdfu.org. ■
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Union Farmer
NATIONAL CONVENTION
Delegates Vote on NFU President & Policy During 2020 Convention A CLOSER LOOK
SDFU members representing South Dakota policy during NFU Convention: Brian Cain, Miller; Terry Sestak, Tabor; Gail Temple, Clark; Rachel Kippley, Aberdeen; Jeff Kippley, Aberdeen; Amber Kolousek, Wessington Springs; Scott Kolousek, Wessington Springs; Gerri Eide, Gettysburg and Doug Sombke, SDFU President. Dallis Basel, Union Center, is not pictured.
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uring the 118th NFU Convention held in Savannah, Ga., March 1-3. South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) delegates helped elect Rob Larew to serve as the new National Farmers Union (NFU) President following the retirement of North Dakota farmer Roger Johnson. “South Dakota should be very proud in the way our delegates represented our state’s policy and our family farmers and ranchers,” explains Doug Sombke, SDFU President and fourth-generation Conde farmer. During a meeting with South Dakota’s delegates prior to election, Larew promised to be a strong voice for family farmers and ranchers. “I will work to keep our organization’s focus where it needs to be. I will keep fighting like hell for the cattle and dairy industries.” On the policy floor, who gets to represent the voice of farmers and ranchers as delegates, led to a lively discussion. Among the first items of business was a proposal to change NFU bylaws to specify that all NFU convention delegates, participating in policy discussion and voting for policy, must meet the current USDA definition of an agriculture producer. The USDA defines a producer as an individual who raises and sells $1,000 or more worth of agricultural products each year. “Without this clear definition, anyone a state appoints can serve as a delegate,” Sombke explains. “This could include CEOs of corporate agriculture.”
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While South Dakota’s delegates joined with several states’ delegates and voted for this change, more delegates voted to leave the bylaws as they are currently written. Sombke says educating other states about the importance of this bylaw change will remain a focus as he engages with other states’ leaders throughout the year. Along with his role as SDFU President, Sombke serves as President of Farmers Union Enterprises and as Treasurer of the NFU Executive Committee. “If we don’t protect this organization by having actual farmers and ranchers making the decisions for farmers and ranchers, then what are we doing,” Sombke asks.
New National Farmers Union President Rob Larew (left) sworn into office.
Sombke references the organization’s history. “When Farmers Union was first formed in Texas to help cotton farmers receive a fair price, you had to know a secret
Truth in Labeling: SDFU delegates introduced a Special Order of Business which passed focusing on Truth in Labeling. “National Farmers Union supports the use of the terms beef, pork, poultry, lamb, and seafood in a food label to be used exclusively for meat harvested from live animals, in a traditional manner. National Farmers Union asks USDA that if a USDA inspection stamp is used on cell-cultured protein alternatives, that the stamp shall be visibly different than traditional meat.” Hardship Waivers: SDFU members voted to add new language to NFU policy that would restrict hardship waivers. Water Management: SDFU delegates voted to oppose a motion to change existing policy that could impact farmers’ and ranchers’ rights when it comes to managing water on their land. “Drainage problems in the Prairie Pothole region are real. To be good stewards, we need to keep all options open,” explains Rachel Kippley, Aberdeen farmer and SDFU delegate. The national policy did not change. Rail Line Accountability: SDFU delegates proposed to amend NFU policy to hold rail lines accountable when it comes to basis. “Basis is being used as a hedge. It should not be used for hedging. It should be used for transportation,” explains SDFU delegate Jeff Kippley, Aberdeen farmer. The amendment passed, calling for oversight by the Surface Transportation Board and/or appropriate federal agency to investigate abuse of the basis levels. handshake in order to attend meetings because they were worried about owners of cotton gins infiltrating. Even then, they knew that when farmers get together and have a unified voice, they can make positive change.” Sombke is optimistic that the change will come about in 2021. As he, the other delegates and SDFU members reflect on the two days of policy, there is quite a bit of optimism over the policy developed and its ability to clearly reflect SDFU members’ needs and SDFU policy. National policy passed that aligns with SDFU includes the following: • Passing a Special Order of Business focused on Truth in Labeling (introduced by SDFU) www.sdfu.org
NATIONAL CONVENTION • Inserting new language restricting biofuel hardship waivers • Voting down a change that would impact farmers’ water management rights • Passing an amendment to hold rail lines accountable when it comes to basis “Somebody’s got to initiate positive change,” explains SDFU delegate Brian Cain, a crop and cattle producer from Miller. Even when a delegate’s policy discussion did not align with South Dakota’s policy, SDFU delegate, Gerri Eide says it proved how every state’s voice is heard. “Policy provides an opportunity for all state’s delegates to be heard. Even those in the minority. We all learned something from each other,” says the Gettysburg farmer and small business owner. Cain and Eide were among South Dakota Farmers Union members elected to serve as delegates during the 2020 NFU Convention. Other delegates included Terry Sestak, Tabor; Jeff and Rachel Kippley; Gail Temple, Clark; Dallis Basel, Union Center; and Scott and Amber Kolousek, Wessington Springs. “It’s fun to see a certain amount of disagreement throughout policy,” explains Rob Lee, De Smet farmer and crop insurance
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adjuster. “From the beginning, it shows how fluid and responsive this organization is to current topics in agriculture.” Lee and his wife, Darcie, represent South Dakota in the 2019 Class of Farmers Union Enterprise Leadership Conference. NFU Convention is one of five events they attend which focuses on developing rural leaders. The lively policy discussion also impressed David Reis, a Reliance rancher and District 4 board member. Topics covered everything from renewable hardship waivers, basis oversight and truth in labeling to testing the purity of honey and management of endangered species. “Actual farmers are up at the microphone making sure policy is stated in such a way that their needs are addressed,” Reis explains. “Even though not all policy impacts me or other South Dakota farmers, in most cases, what concerns one farmer should concern all of us.” The 2020 Convention marks one of several Salem farmer Jim Wahle has attended as a delegate and SDFU board member. This year however, he served in a new role. Wahle was a member of the NFU Policy Committee. In this role, Wahle spent a week in D.C. in January,
Union Farmer reviewing the current NFU policy with the other committee members. Throughout the first two days of convention, any bylaw or policy changes states hoped to make, needed to first come before the policy committee for review. “This was unlike any experience I have ever had,” Wahle says. “It was quite educational and at times frustrating. I agreed to serve because I like the values Farmers Union stands for – education, cooperation and legislation.” Like Wahle, Aberdeen farmer Kirk Schaunaman has attended several conventions. This year, he was impressed by the leadership he saw from South Dakota’s farmer-delegates. “It’s positive when you see younger people involved and wanting to take active roles for our future,” Schaunaman says. “Through Farmers Union, we have strength in numbers. At the end of the day, the policy put in place here will be the policy our national organization follows as it represents us in D.C.” To learn more about SDFU policy and how you can become more involved, visit www. sdfu.org or contact SDFU Executive Director Karla Hofhenke at Karla@sdfu.org or call 605352-6761. ■
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Union Farmer Rob Larew National Farmers Union President
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ollowing organization’s annual convention and the recent passage of two major trade deals, Farmers Union members were hoping for a return to normalcy. But a global pandemic has interrupted global trade – and everything else. There is still a great deal of uncertainty about how this will affect American agriculture, both in the short term and long term. National Farmers Union is closely monitoring the situation and will advocate for policies that ensure food security for all American consumers and financial security for food producers. DELEGATES SET NFU’S POLICY PRIOIRITES, ELECT NEW PRESIDENT At National Farmers Union’s (NFU) 118th Anniversary Convention in Savannah, Ga., 199 delegates from 33 states participated in the organization’s grassroots policymaking process. During a day-and-a-half long discussion, they debated, amended and voted on NFU’s policy book, which will determine the national office’s official positions on a variety of issues, especially as they relate to the tough economic circumstances and sustainability issues facing family farmers. Additionally, the delegates set the organization’s priorities for the next year with special orders of business on the farm economy, the 2020 election, cooperatives, dairy reform, climate change, and truth in labeling. NFU’s government relations team is already hard at work in D.C. bringing those concerns to legislators. Before the policy review began, delegates elected Rob Larew to succeed Roger Johnson as the organization’s president and reelected Patty Edelburg of Scandinavia, Wis., to serve as NFU Vice President. Larew and Edelburg’s two-year terms began at the convention and will conclude at NFU’s 120th Anniversary Convention in 2022, at which point both may seek reelection. Larew, who was raised on a West Virginia dairy farm, served as NFU’s Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Communications since fall 2016. In that role, he oversaw the organization’s legislative advocacy in Congress and the executive branch as well as its public relations activities. Prior to his employment with NFU, Larew served more than 22 years in Congress and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), most recently as the staff director of the House Committee on Agriculture.
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USDA ANNOUNCES INNOVATION PLAN Responding to mounting environmental challenges confronting American food production and security, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced a new, department-wide innovation initiative “to align resources, programs and research to position American agriculture to better meet future global demands.” In broad strokes, the initiative outlines strategies to half the “environmental footprint” of U.S. agriculture while boosting production 40 percent within the next 30 years. More specifically, it calls for a reduction in food loss and waste, a reduction in the agricultural sector’s current carbon footprint, a reduction in nutrient loss from soil and an increase in biofuel production efficiency and competitiveness. Among the first national farm organizations to sound the alarm on rising global temperatures, National Farmers Union (NFU) has consistently pushed for urgent and decisive federal action to help farmers curb greenhouse gas emissions, sequester carbon in agricultural soils and adapt to increasingly frequent and severe weather events. Though the organization was encouraged by the USDA’s efforts to address the issue of sustainability, it emphasized the need for swifter and more dramatic action. “The White House and USDA need to treat this crisis with the urgency it deserves,” says then-NFU President Roger Johnson. “We stand ready to work with this administration toward the right public policy and economic incentives to ensure that family farmers and ranchers are a meaningful part of the solution.” TRUMP HINTS AT THIRD ROUND OF TRADE ASSISTANCE Though the Trump administration has promised that China will import $40 billion worth of U.S. farm products this year, his administration officials are indicating that the value may, in fact, be significantly lower. During the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Outlook Forum in February, the agency’s chief economist, Robert Johansson, suggested that fiscal year agricultural exports to China will be closer to $14 billion. Though this would be $26 billion shy of earlier estimates, it would still be a $4 billion increase over last year’s exports. Johannson emphasized that there are still many unknown variables at play, including a global Coronavirus outbreak and competition
from other countries. Shortly after these comments were made, President Donald Trump tweeted that if “farmers need additional aid” while waiting for trade deals to take full effects, “that aid will be provided by the federal government, paid out of the massive tariff money coming into the USA.” National Farmers Union (NFU) appreciates the administration’s ongoing support for farmers affected by trade disputes but has been critical of its haphazard approach to development and implementation. In a letter sent to Secretary Perdue, then-President Roger Johnson urged the USDA to follow a “public and transparent process” in the event that additional trade assistance is administered. “Our members appreciate the much-needed help MFP provided in the last two years, but also know that this program must do better,” the letter reads. “I strongly suggest that USDA work with the House and Senate agriculture committees to convene a joint hearing to receive public comments, explore the present challenges with our export markets and to consider sound policies for distributing financial assistance.” PROPOSED RULE UNDERMINES PACKERS AND STOCKYARDS ACT A rule proposed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture would exacerbate the power imbalance between farmers and the livestock, meat and poultry industries, according to comments submitted by National Farmers Union President Rob Larew. The rule in question outlines criteria for determining whether a company has shown “undue or unreasonable preferences and advantages” for one farmer over another. An action may be permissible if it can be justified on the basis of either cost savings or meeting the terms or prices offered by competitors, or if it’s a “reasonable business decision that would be customary in the industry.” Larew expressed concern that the rule would not only fail to provide necessary protections to family farmers and ranchers from abusive and anticompetitive businesss practices, but also could shield corporations from legal challenges to such practices. He urged the administration to “revoke the proposed rule” and instead “develop criteria that are clear and specific and provide family farmers and ranchers the protections they need and deserve.” ■ Current as of March 15, 2020
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Union Farmer From the President....
Empower Farmers to Solve Farm Issues During Tough Times
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Doug Sombke, SDFU President
don’t know about you, but I don’t like taking problems to political leaders and agency officials unless I have a solution in mind. I guess it’s the farmer in me. So, when I look at the current state of agriculture and the many challenges facing family farmers and ranchers across South Dakota and the nation, I propose the farmer-developed, expert-tested Inventory Management Soil Enhancement Tool (IMSET). Today, when crop insurance revenue prices are at an all-time low, it is the common-sense, voluntary answer to the many challenges facing agriculture producers: • Oversupply of commodities • Slump in crude oil prices dragging grain markets even lower • High input costs • Ongoing Trade War Developed by Craig Blindert, a Salem, S.D., crop and livestock farmer who also works as an independent crop insurance agent, IMSET is a market-based, voluntary, crop insurance plan to protect against market lows by encouraging farmers to plant marginal acres to a crop that enhances soil health when commodity markets don’t meet production costs. These same acres would have flexibility to be hayed or grazed after a certain time of year. Basically, a farmer’s crop insurance guarantee would go up 2 percent for every 1 percent of land that farmer voluntarily enrolled in a soil enhancement management plan for that growing season. Craig developed this four years ago – when the markets were much more favorable than they are today. He brought it to me and together we reached out to experts at North Dakota State University, NDSU Extension, Frayne Olson, Crop Economist/Marketing Specialist with NDSU Extension and the Director for the Burdick Center for Cooperatives, and Saleem Shaik, Professor of Agribusiness and Ag Economics at NDSU and the Director of the Center for Agricultural Policy and Trade Studies. Utilizing economic modeling technology, they replicated some real-world examples and said Craig’s IMSET idea is solvent enough for additional research. “This would be an annual option where farmers could choose
to voluntarily idle some acres in exchange for higher price coverage under crop insurance.” Based on their preliminary results, they said IMSET would provide a much more timely and sustainable solution. Because, it is different from the current farm program and policy system which relies upon the marketplace to motivate yield adjustments, these experts explained, “the market will work itself out, the problem is, it usually results in farmers having multiple years of losses before they make yield adjustments, and it becomes a very painful process in which we lose farms and farmers. Craig’s idea could potentially provide an incentive to shift acres out of production quicker and not allow for as much financial pain.” From a policy standpoint, the experts said Craig’s plan would also be more sustainable. “When policy is tied to something related to crop insurance, like an add-on, we would not expect to see too many restrictions. This is important, especially when you move into a new political environment, if tax reform does come through and adjustments are made to current farm programs.” With this preliminary study complete, we began introducing this solution to congressional leaders as well as Risk Management Agency (RMA) officials, first in D.C. then at their Kansas City headquarters. What has their response been? They are interested more today than when we first introduced it. When we first introduced IMSET, times were much better – grain and crude oil markets were solid, trade with China was healthy and the Corn Belt wasn’t flooding. Times are tough. But farmers are even tougher. We do need support. But the support we need is not another bailout. It needs to come in the form of a voluntary management program that allows farmers to make wise decisions based on the markets, their farm and its situation. If you would like to learn more, please reach out to me, Dsombke@sdfu.org.
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South Dakota Union Farmer, ISSN 0745-8797, publishes 9 times per calendar year, with issues printed in January/February, March/April, May/June, July, August, September, October, November and December. Periodical postage paid at Madison, S.D. Karla Hofhenke, Publisher Lura Roti, Editor ~ Wendy Sweeter, Copy Editor Diane Martinson, Layout & Design
All information for publication must be submitted by the 15th of the month. You may submit items to address below or email items to: sdfu@sdfu.org POSTMASTER: Address changes to: SDFU, PO Box 1388, Huron, S.D. 57350-1388
Contact SDFU • 605.352.6761 1410 Dakota Avenue South, PO Box 1388, Huron, SD 57350 www.sdfu.org
sdfu@sdfu.org
SDFU State Office Staff Karla Hofhenke............ext. 114 Executive Director Huron
Kelli Peterson...............ext. 116 Administrative Assistant Huron
Rachel Haigh-Blume.... ext. 125 Education Director Tulare
Doug Bruckner..............ext. 118 Controller Wessington Springs
Rocky Forman..............ext. 117 Member Services Coordinator Huron
Luke Reindl................... ext. 122 Comm. & Policy Specialist Wessington Springs
SDFU Board of Directors Doug Sombke.........President Groton Wayne Soren.. Vice President Lake Preston Mike Miller................ District I Freeman Scott Kolousek......... District II Wessington Springs Gail Temple............. District III Clark
Contact NFU
Sincerely,
David Reis................District IV Oacoma Dallis Basel...............District V Union Center Oren Lesmeister......District VI Parade Chad Johnson........District VII Groton
National Farmers Union 20 F Street NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001
Doug Sombke, President South Dakota Farmers Union
Congressional Leaders Contact information: Rep. Dusty Johnson 202-225-2801 / 855-225-2801 reid.rasmussen@mail.house.gov
A PUBLICATION OF SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION
Sen. Mike Rounds 202-224-5842 / 844-875-5268 logan_penfield@rounds.senate.gov
Sen. John Thune 202-224-2321 / 866-850-3855 ryan_donnelly@thune.senate.gov
Rob Larew, President ~ Patty Edelburg, Vice President Darin Von Ruden, Secretary ~ Doug Sombke, Treasurer 202.554.1600 www.nfu.org
March/April 2020
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Union Farmer
Lake Area Technical Students Gain New Perspective on Cooperatives
Conference attendees: Justin Sears, Montevideo, Minn.; Jeffrey York, Instructor, Henry, S.D.; Grant Stoick, Watertown, S.D.; Mariah Williams, Estelline, S.D.; Caleb VanZee, Sioux Falls, S.D.; Hallie Tolzin, DeSmet, S.D.; Parker Pietz, Pierre, S.D.; Grant Britt, Watertown, S.D.; Andrew Edgar, Faulkton, S.D.; Conner Graves, Pukwana, S.D.; McKayla Poindexter, Pierre, S.D.; Molly Watt, Estelline, S.D.; Miranda Smidt, Brookings, S.D.; Anna Jongeline, Estelline, S.D.; Jadyn McCready, Wolsey, S.D.
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rowing up, Andrew Edgar spent his summers working on his cousin’s farm near Orient, S.D. So, until recently, when the Lake Area Technical Institute student thinks about what a cooperative is, the local grain elevator comes to mind. Today, he understands that the cooperative model works for more than farmers. “I didn’t realize cooperatives could be used to provide affordable housing for college students or as a grocery store,” explains Edgar of what he learned during a class trip to Minneapolis and participation in National Farmers Union College Conference on Cooperatives. During the three-day conference, Edgar, along with 13 other Lake Area Technical Institute (LATI) students learned from representatives and farmers from traditional and value-added agricultural, housing and consumer cooperatives. These presenters offered their insight on cooperative development. The students toured several area cooperatives, including Mississippi Market Food Co-op, Seward Coop, Riverton Housing Co-op and REI, as well as the Mill City Museum, a river-front museum built into the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill. “This conference really changed my perspective of cooperative business model,” says Edgar, who plans to put his agriculture business degree to work as a cooperative employee following graduation. Edgar’s experience is not unique, explains Jeff York, LATI instructor who takes students from the Co-op Principles Class to this conference each year. “Students here in South Dakota basically see one model of a
Price Fixing
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morning was $136.79. The only bids I could find out about on fat cattle were approximately $102.00 live. That’s $34.79 per hundred on a 1500 lb. steer, which .equals $521.00 per head gross profit. In my opinion, these packers are using this Coronavirus ordeal as an excuse to suck the life blood out of the cattle industry through criminal activity. After all, price fixing is against the law. Senator’s Thune and Rounds and Congressman Johnson and Governor Kristi Noem, as president of South Dakota Farmers Union I’m asking you on behalf of all our cattle producers in South Dakota whom you represent, to get answers from the Justice department and USDA’s GIPSA to why laws already on the books are not being enforced!
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March/April 2020
cooperative – their hometown elevator,” York explains. “By going on this trip, they get to expand their horizons a bit and see the different uses of this business model.” South Dakota Farmers Union helps coordinate the trip for LATI each year. “Supporting cooperatives and educating the next generation about the value of cooperative membership has been a focus of Farmers Union since the beginning, more than a century ago,” explains Doug Sombke, SDFU President. More about the NFU College Conference on Cooperatives Lake Area Technical Institute students were among 75 students who participated in National Farmers Union annual College Conference on Cooperatives (CCOC). The three-day conference provides an interactive learning experience for American agriculture’s next generation on the importance, structure and operations of various types of cooperative groups. This year’s conference was made possible by premier supporters CHS Foundation, CHS Inc., CoBank, Farmers Union Industries Foundation and NFU Foundation. National Farmers Union also appreciates the generosity of the Ralph K. Morris Foundation, which provided travel scholarships for several students and hosted the keynote luncheon. To learn more about how SDFU promotes and provides education to South Dakotans of all ages, visit www.sdfu.org. ■ The livelihood of South Dakota cattlemen and women depends on YOU! For many who are beginning or younger this abuse will be the end of their young agricultural careers, unless something is done real soon. You know as well as I we can NOT afford to lose the most valuable resource, our young people, willing to take on the challenges of farming and ranching in our great state of South Dakota. Our more seasoned farmers and ranchers are losing an extreme amount of hard fought for equity they may never get back if something isn’t done very soon. Thank you for your work on our behalf and I look forward to your prompt response to our request. Respectfully, Doug Sombke President www.sdfu.org
Union Farmer THANK YOU CARDS I wish to thank the Farmers Union for my ticket to “Women in Blue Jeans” in Mitchell. The sessions on were most enjoyable. – JoAnn Weisz
Thank you for registering me to “Women in Blue Jeans.” I always find an interesting session to take part in and learn something new. – Gladys Geidel
4 Ways to Connect With Us! SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION mail to: sdfu@sdfu.org
Like us for updates, photos, news, and so much more. https://www.facebook.com/ South-Dakota-Farmers-Union277721538812/
Farmers Union signs available Show your Farmers Union spirit with a special Farmers Union sign. Available for a limited time, the sign makes a fun addition to the farm driveway, the side of a barn or even a statement piece in the house. The cost per sign is $10 or free with a five-year or greater membership to Farmers Union. To get yours today, contact Kelli Peterson at 605-352-6761 ext 116 or at KPeterson@sdfu.org.
Order Your Own Copy of the Farmers Union Centennial Cookbook Cookbooks are $10 plus tax and shipping. Contact Kelli Peterson 605-352-6761, ext 116, to place your order today!
COOK’S CORNER
Cheese and Meatball Soup 1 lb. beef 1 egg ¼ c. bread crumbs ½ tsp. Tobasco sauce 2 c. water 1 c. corn
View videos at the South Dakota Farmers Union Channel. https://www.youtube.com/ user/sdfarmersunion
SDFU CLIP AND SAVE CALENDAR April 3 4 7 10 15-17 19-21
Marsha Schelske, Menno, S.D.
1 c. potato cubes, raw 1 c. celery, diced ½ c. carrots, sliced ½ c. onion, chopped 2 beef bouillon cubes 16 oz. Cheez Whiz
Mix meat, egg, bread crumbs and Tobasco sauce. Form into meatballs and place in large kettle. Add the rest of the ingredients, except Cheez Whiz, and stir gently. Bring to a boil then cover and simmer for 2 hours. Add Cheez Whiz. Stir gently until blended and serve. www.sdfu.org
Follow us for the latest legislative updates and news. https://twitter.com/sdfarmersunion
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Safety Trailer, Faith District 3 Meeting, Watertown Safety Trailer, Pukwana State office closed for Easter Ag Credit Conference, Pierre State FFA Convention, Brookings State Quiz Bowl Competition, Brookings Social Media Marketing Conference, Sioux Falls 4-H Judging, Brookings District 4 Meeting, Winner Courthouse State Office Closed – Memorial Day
June 17 SDHSRA Welcome, Ft. Pierre July 3 State office closed for holiday 23-26 Summer Spotlight September 3-7 S.D. State Fair, Huron 7 State office closed for Labor Day 14-16 Washington, D.C. Fly-in March/April 2020
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Aberdeen Aberdeen Bison Bison Britton Brookings Brookings Brookings Buffalo Clark Doland Doland Faulkton Groton Huron Irene Irene
J.R. Johnson Cameron Lux Alan Voller Karen Voller Tom Farber Gary Ray Beth Reams Heidi Fields Jim Erk Lon Reidburn Bonnie Wagner Mark Rozell Dawn Melius J.R. Johnson Blaine Anderson Brendon Hansen Brian Hansen
725-3003 377-3876 244-7431 244-7431 448-5150 692-6735 690-3018 881-2830 375-3311 532-3299 635-6511 635-6511 598-6570 725-3003 352-2130 263-2121 263-3342
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